Wisconsin may be best known for its picturesque landscapes, dairy farms, and vibrant music scene. This Midwestern state has given birth to numerous talented individuals who have made their mark in the music industry, captivating audiences with their powerful voices and unforgettable performances. In this article, we will delve into the rich musical heritage of Wisconsin and shine a spotlight on ten famous singers who proudly hail from this remarkable state. From chart-topping pop sensations to soulful blues artists, Wisconsin has nurtured a diverse range of musical talent. Each of these artists has not only showcased their extraordinary vocal abilities but has also left an indelible impact on the world of music, transcending boundaries and inspiring generations. As we explore the lives and careers of these ten exceptional singers, we will uncover the stories behind their rise to fame, the challenges they overcame, and the enduring legacies they have created. Join us on this captivating journey through the lives of Wisconsin’s most renowned vocalists, and discover the extraordinary talent that has emerged from the heartland of America.
1. Tank
Tank, the American R&B singer-songwriter, hails from Wisconsin. His blend of R&B, pop, and hip-hop has made him famous and earned him countless fans.
His Key Contributions:
| Album | Year Released | Record Label |
|---|---|---|
| Force of Nature | 2001 | Blackground Records |
| One Man | 2002 | Default Records |
| Sex Love & Pain | 2007 | Blackground Records |
| Now or Never | 2010 | Atlantic Records |
| This Is How I Feel | 2012 | Atlantic Records |
He's also renowned for his songwriting. He's written for Aaliyah, Jamie Foxx, and Kelly Rowland.
Tip: Follow Tank on social media for updates and shows. Wisconsin's cheese curds must add that extra punch to his music!
2. Violent Femmes
Violent Femmes are a folk punk band from Wisconsin. They rose to fame in the early 1980s with their self-titled debut album. They combine acoustic instruments with punk rock for a unique sound.
Their hit song "Blister in the Sun" was a major success. With its catchy melody and memorable lyrics, it's an anthem for alternative radio stations.
The band members are Gordon Gano (vocals/guitar), Brian Ritchie (bass), and Victor DeLorenzo (drums). They met in high school in Milwaukee and began playing together at the Oriental Theatre.
Fun Fact: The band has inspired many musicians, including Kurt Cobain of Nirvana. He acknowledged being heavily influenced by Violent Femmes' music. Madison's own Garbage creates music that's anything but trash!
3. Garbage
Shirley Manson, the lead singer of the renowned alternative rock band Garbage, hails from Edinburgh, Scotland. But, she was raised in a small town outside of Glasgow. At age 19, she moved to Wisconsin to pursue her music career. She became a naturalized U.S. citizen.
In Wisconsin, Manson joined up with Duke Erikson, Butch Vig and Steve Marker to form Garbage. They made hits like "Stupid Girl" and "Only Happy When It Rains". Throughout the 90s and early 2000s, the band experienced huge success.
Garbage was focused on innovation in their music. They blended genres like electronic pop and alternative rock with drum machines.
Garbage's journey is inspiring. It reminds us that we can reach great opportunities if we stay committed to our dreams. Al Jarreau also put Wisconsin on the map for jazz.
4. Al Jarreau
Al Jarreau was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. He was a popular singer with a unique vocal range and scat-singing style that could mimic any instrument. From an early age, he sang in the church choir. Later, he moved to California to pursue his music career and released hits such as "We're In This Love Together" and "Boogie Down".
Jarreau was not only a singer. He was a philanthropist too. He believed in giving back to his community so often he performed charity concerts and donated resources to those in need.
One thing that made Al Jarreau special was how he interacted with his audience during live performances. He would make up lyrics on stage based on what was happening around him or his personal experiences, making each concert unique. His love for music and desire to connect with people through it made him beloved in the industry.
There's a story about how his improvisational skills saved a concert with technical difficulties. Rather than let the situation ruin the show, Jarreau sang without a microphone until the problem was fixed.
Al Jarreau will always be remembered as Wisconsin's exceptional singer. He brought joy and inspiration to many through his music. Joe Schermie may have passed away, but his bass lines will live on longer than a Packers versus Bears rivalry.
5. Joe Schermie
Joe Schermie, a Wisconsin-based famous singer, made an immense contribution to the music world. His ability to play bass guitar immaculately and create unique grooves was remarkable. He was widely known for being part of the popular band Three Dog Night, which created numerous hit songs in the 1970s.
Schermie was raised in Fitchburg, Wisconsin. From an early age, he was passionate about music. At 12, he started playing with a guitar and later switched to a bass. His excellence caught the eye of other musicians, which led him to join numerous bands until he was part of Three Dog Night.
In addition to his remarkable contributions to the music industry, Schermie was renowned for his vibrant personality and positive attitude. He always had a smile on his face, radiating energy everywhere he went.
Unfortunately, Joe Schermie passed away in March 2002 at 56. Nonetheless, his influence remains through the music he created and the mark he left on those who knew him personally.
Go explore more about the amazing musicians from Wisconsin, including Joe Schermie. Their stories will inspire you, and showcase how this state has had a massive impact on forming the music industry as we know it today. Plus, Les Paul may also be from Wisconsin, but his guitar-playing abilities were electrifying and his impact on music was extraordinary.
6. Les Paul
Les Paul was an influential musician! Born in 1915, he was a talented player by 13. He invented the solid-body electric guitar, which changed music forever. He also invented multi-track recording, which let artists layer sounds.
Les was a star in his own right. He had many hits and appeared on TV. He donated $10M to create The Les Paul Center for Innovation. This was to help young musicians innovate.
Les's legacy is not only his music, but his dedication to growing music through innovation. Bon Iver's music is perfect for feeling sad in a cabin or stuck in traffic.
7. Bon Iver
Bon Iver – a unique and innovative singer-songwriter of the 21st century. Born in Wisconsin, Justin Vernon took his band name from "bon hiver", meaning "good winter". He recorded music in a log cabin, inspired by heartache and isolation.
Vernon's sound is renowned for its hauntingly beautiful melodies and layered harmonies. His lyrics often explore love, loss and hope. He also supports social causes like climate change and indigenous communities.
Bon Iver remains true to its Wisconsin roots. Justin Vernon's success story is an inspiration to aspiring musicians everywhere. Experience the transcendent sounds of Bon Iver! Listen and be taken to a world of raw emotions and unforgettable melodies.
8. Woody Herman
Woody Herman was a celebrated musician and bandleader hailing from Wisconsin. The Grammy-winning jazz icon's career flourished for four decades, and his music is remembered as some of the most iconic in American history. Born in Milwaukee in 1913, Woody formed his first band in his teenage years. He toured extensively across America and the world before his passing in 1987.
Woody was also renowned for his groundbreaking move of forming the first racially-integrated big band in 1947. This cleared the path for other musicians to follow, resulting in greater diversity and acceptance within the industry.
An interesting tidbit about Woody is that he once performed at the White House for President Franklin D. Roosevelt, as part of a program called Strike Up the Band. It was a huge honor not only for him and his bandmates, but for all jazz musicians who were finally being seen as true artists.
Woody Herman remains an inspiration to many musicians today, both locally and globally. His legacy lives on through his ageless music and contributions towards equal representation in the arts. Skylar Grey from Wisconsin is proof that the great lakes are not the only ones producing chart-topping hits.
9. Skylar Grey
Skylar Grey is an acclaimed musician from Wisconsin. She's earned multiple Grammy nominations due to her unique sound and songwriting skills. She's collaborated with some of the most famous artists, like Eminem, Rihanna and Nicki Minaj. Her real name is Holly Brook Hafermann, and she grew up in Mazomanie, Wisconsin. Songwriting began in high school and she later went to University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire.
Grey's music style is varied, from pop to folk to rock. Her signature sound has emotive lyrics and haunting melodies. She became famous with "Love The Way You Lie," which she co-wrote with Eminem and Rihanna. It was a hit in many countries.
If you're looking for music, try Skylar Grey's discography. From "Coming Home" to "Cannonball," there's something for everyone. If you're a musician, take her lead: stay true to your voice and never give up on your dreams. Hard work will pay off in the long run!
10. Steve Miller
The renowned American singer-songwriter, Steve Miller, is considered a major influence in popular music. Born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, he began playing guitar as a child. His rock songs like "The Joker" and "Fly Like an Eagle" made him an icon during the 70s and 80s.
His music was a special mix of blues, rock, and pop, and he had millions of fans worldwide. Interestingly, Miller never forgot his roots and still maintains a strong bond with Wisconsin. He helps organizations that give musical education to children there.
Pro Tip: Despite his success, Steve Miller still motivates young musicians globally with his talent and creativity.
Samuel Moore is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
